San Francisco Cable Cars
Cable Cars are as much a San Francisco icon as is the Golden Gate Bridge. Operated since 1873, the City's cable cars were named a National Historic Landmark in 1964. Originally designed as a way to alleviate the burden of the horses that had been pulling carriages of pedestrians over San Francisco's torturous hills, the concept caught on quickly and over the years 22 different companies have operated cable cars in San Francisco. For locals, they are simply a way to get around. For tourists, they are delightful way to see the city and a memorable experience. Each car moves along the street at a steady 9 1/2 miles an hour. There are no stops, you simply hop on and jump off when you have reached your destination. The "grip" handles the brake and rings the bell, while the conductor tends to riders and collects the fare. While it's not a roller coaster ride, the 20% grades will cause you to look for something solid to hold on to!

A museum is open to the public at the Cable Car Barn, where you will learn something of the history of San Francisco cable cars, get a look at one of the first ever to roll down the street and see the massive pulleys and cables that keep it all moving. Best of all, the museum is free.